MLS’ San Jose Earthquakes Sold to Alden’s Freeman for $625M
Sportico.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Alden Global Capital co-founder Heath Freeman is set to acquire the San Jose Earthquakes from John Fisher for an enterprise value of $625 million, pending deal closure and MLS owners' approval.
- John Fisher initially paid a $20 million expansion fee for the team in 2007 and began the sale process in June 2025 as he shifted focus to relocating his MLB team, the Athletics, to Las Vegas.
- Alden Global Capital, known for owning numerous newspapers through Digital First Media and controversial cost-cutting measures, is expanding into MLS ownership with this acquisition.
- The Earthquakes were valued at $585 million by Sportico, ranking 23rd among MLS teams, while other Canadian MLS teams like CF Montréal and Vancouver Whitecaps are also currently on the market.
- Moelis & Co. served as the exclusive financial advisor for the Earthquakes, with multiple law firms involved in the transaction, including Katten, Munchen and Rosenman, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher and Flom, and Sidley Austin representing Heath Freeman.
